3 Great Days Exploring Lake of the Ozarks & Jefferson CityWe had an incredible time exploring the Lake of the Ozarks and Jefferson City! From stunning lakefront views and watersports to locally made wines, cave tours, and some seriously good BBQ, this part of Missouri delivers on all fronts. Whether you're out on the water all day or poking around the state capital, there's plenty to keep you busy and well fed.Authorsexpeditionkristen
DestinationsMissouriItinerary

Day 1

Matriarcha
Such a fun spot to grab brunch or lunch. If possible, grab a spot on the front porch and check out the Capitol in the distance.
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Central Dairy Ice Cream Parlor
A charming ice cream parlor with giant scoops and cheap prices. This place hit the spot on a day that was 87 degrees!
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Deborah Cooper Park on Adrian's Island
All the wildflowers look stunning in spring and the view of the Capitol on top of the hill is unbeatable!
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Missouri State Penitentiary
A sobering look at what prisons used to look like and how they've evolved over the years. You'll also learn about infamous prisoners who were locked up inside, or escaped from, this penitentiary. The tour guide was excellent and deeply knowledgeable.
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Prison Brews
A great local spot with excellent beer! The brewpub sits two blocks from the old Missouri State Penitentiary in a restored 1895 brick warehouse, with a big outdoor patio and bocce courts out back.
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Missouri State Capitol
A free activity to learn more about Missouri's history and the people who shaped it. The building itself is stunning, completed in 1917 with a 238-foot dome and Thomas Hart Benton murals inside that are worth the visit alone.
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Backwater Jack's
One of the best restaurants in The Ozarks for unbeatable sunset views! Grab a table on the top deck, or lounge in the swim up bar and enjoy this gorgeous corner of Missouri.
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Sweet Smoke BBQ
Delicious BBQ food in the heart of Jefferson City. I recommend getting a variety of meats and sides to share with your friends.
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Camden on the Lake Resort
I loved the lakefront views from this hotel. The swim-up bar and pool were especially awesome during sunset. Live music on the outdoor lakeside stage most summer weekends is a nice bonus.
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Book

Day 2

Rusty Rooster Cafe
A classic breakfast spot with all your favorite American breakfast options and unlimited coffee refills. You can even take your refills to go! The staff are super friendly too.
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Ha Ha Tonka State Park
A great park to spend the afternoon exploring a waterfall, castle ruins and much more! Keep an eye out for all the birds too.
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Franky & Louie's Beachfront Bar & Grill
A super upbeat lakefront restaurant with pizza, live music and a sandy beach! Loved all the bright colors and friendly staff.
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Mathany Family Vineyards
A great variety of wines and ciders, made locally! I recommend getting a flight so you can try a few!
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Lake of the Ozarks
An incredible man-made lake, great for those who love fishing, kayaking, boating and swimming. One of the largest lakes in the country and easily one of Missouri's best.
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Redhead Lakeside Grill and Yacht Club
Great food, great drinks, and unbeatable views of Lake of the Ozarks. One of the most popular waterfront spots on the lake, with a swim-up bar and live music on weekends.
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Day 3

Stewart's Restaurant
A great spot for big portions and low prices. Definitely go with a big appetite! Stewart's has been a Lake of the Ozarks institution since 1953
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Stark Caverns
Our tour guide was super knowledgeable and we learned so much! From the critters that live inside the cave, to the variety of humans and animals that called this place home including Native Americans, hibernating bears and those looking for a secret spot to enjoy a drink during prohibition!
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Willmore Lodge
A historic lodge with a free museum and a large balcony offering stunning views of the lake. Built in 1930 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Willmore Lodge tells the story of how Bagnell Dam created the Lake of the Ozarks and the community that grew up around it.
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